Penny's eyes fixed on him, her gaze cautious but curious. It was rare for Darius to say much—he was a man of few words, known more for his silent presence than any grand speeches. Yet here he was, speaking more than usual, and not once did she sense any disdain in his tone.
It felt almost… like concern.
"Do you also believe I tried to harm our Luna?" she finally whispered, her voice rough from disuse, but steady.
Darius's gaze remained fixed on her, his expression unchanging. For a long moment, he said nothing, and Penny's heart raced, her fear clawing at her insides.
Finally, he leaned against the stone wall, crossing his arms. "Beliefs don't matter much here. Only the truth does."
Her shoulders slumped, and she turned her face away, a bitter smile tugging at her lips. "The truth? And who here cares for that?"
"I do," Darius responded, his voice steady, almost firm. "But I also know that truth can be twisted, especially when fear and mistrust fester."
